Nico Williams rejects Barcelona move, signs new Athletic Bilbao contract

The 22-year-old Spain international had been widely tipped to join the Catalan giants, with Barcelona reportedly ready to trigger his 8 million euros release clause. Sporting director Deco had even confirmed the player was keen on a move, while club president Joan Laporta publicly expressed a willingness to bring Williams to Camp Nou.

However, in a surprise development on Friday, Athletic announced the extension, which includes a significantly increased release clause - reportedly more than 50% higher than the previous one.

Williams, who joined Athletic's academy at age 11, has become one of the most exciting young players in La Liga since breaking into the senior team in 2021. He has made 167 appearances, scored 31 goals, and was instrumental in the club's 2024 Copa del Rey triumph - their first major trophy in four decades.

"When you have to make decisions, for me, what weighs most is the heart," Williams said in a video released by the club, in which he spray-paints "2035" onto a defaced mural of himself in Bilbao. "I am where I want to be, with my people. This is my home. Aupa Athletic!"

The decision marks a blow to Barcelona's transfer strategy. The club had identified Williams as a priority signing, with the aim of easing the attacking burden on Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. Williams, who formed close ties with several Barca players while on international duty with Spain - including Yamal, Alejandro Balde, and Pedri-had been linked with a move for over a year.

Barcelona had even come under scrutiny from Athletic, who lodged a complaint with LaLiga over the club's financial practices in an apparent attempt to block the deal. The tension, combined with media speculation, led to frustration among some Athletic fans, with Williams' mural being vandalized on two separate occasions.

In the end, though, Williams chose to remain at the club where he plays alongside his brother, Ghana international Inaki Williams. His new contract ensures that if any club wishes to reignite interest in future, they will face a far steeper financial hurdle.

With Williams no longer available, Barcelona are expected to pivot to alternative targets. Liverpool winger Luis Díaz remains under consideration, though the Premier League side have rejected approaches from both Barca and Bayern Munich. Manchester United's Marcus Rashford has also been linked, following comments expressing a desire to one day play alongside Yamal.

Williams' commitment marks a significant win for Athletic Club - both symbolically and competitively-and sends a clear message about the club's ability to retain top talent in an increasingly aggressive market.

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